Tech-Rec integrates technology and learning with an everyday exercise routine. It allows the student to watch Cable TV, listen to on-line radio stations, check email, play a DVD, watch exercise videos streamed down over the internet, record workout statistics and nutritional information; and also provide the opportunity to study class lectures; all while exercising on the latest workout equipment.
Research to purchase this type of equipment was inconclusive. So it became necessary for MSU to develop this prototype on our own. Most recreation facilities provide TV & radio, or a place to put a magazine to read while working out. No one, that we could find, placed a full featured computer in front of the work-out equipment. MSU is believed to be the first to do this, on campus, for a recreation “specialized computer lab”. Because this is a first of its kind product, MSU will be experimenting & reviewing to see how it can evolve with the student’s demands & usage.
MSU installed a computer with specialized configuration programming that allows the student to easily & quickly select the various options: TV, Radio, MavMail, course material, MavDisk, workout routines, Athletic Hot Tips. The Sony Vaio V617g computer is an high powered all-in-one (cpu, DVD, TV & monitor combined) which made installation with the workout equipment easier.
Two other special additions that allows Tech-Rec to be effective are the “virtually indestructible keyboard” & 20’ power cord. The 20’ power cord eliminated the need for a power strip, reduced clutter. We were surprised to learn that there was such a long power cord that was UL listed. The “virtually indestructible keyboard” eliminates the worry about sweat etc, & cleaning spray from ruining the keyboard. This keyboard is flexible & can be washed often.
Tech-Rec has the potential of opening the door for the integration of traditional study methods, and work out regiments, with technological innovations; in a state-of-the-art facility.
Result: MSU developed & implemented Tech-Rec & is the first recreation facility to do this. This brought a lot of positive public relations in the news (Newspaper, Radio (coast-coast, from Seattle to Boston), & TV). The story hit over 125 news services. Even _Jay Leno_ gave an opening joke on November 23, 2005 about our technological innovation. There have been several reports of potential students visiting campus; touring Otto Recreation Center; seeing Tech-Rec & stating that they have just made their decision to attend MSU!
